Winter Travel 2026

in Featured
December 5th, 2025

Greetings from the ISSO-

As we approach the holidays and winter intersession, we understand that many of you are considering international travel. While we fully appreciate you have good reasons to travel outside of the US, we remain concerned that US federal actions regarding travel and enhanced vetting have increased uncertainty and risk. In addition, visa interview appointments remain difficult to schedule in certain countries and visas are taking longer to process due to social media and background checks. Travelers should also be aware of heightened scrutiny at all ports of entry which has increased the possibility of delayed or denied entry to the US. We encourage you to:

  • review the current ISSO Travel Advisory and use the ISSO Travel Decision Guide to thoughtfully evaluate your individual risk before making any international travel plans.
  • confer with your ISSO Advisor or ISSO advisor on call regarding your plans. While we cannot guarantee your successful and timely return to the US, we can walk you through the travel decision guide to help you to evaluate your risks.
  • ensure that you have valid immigration documents to return before you leave the US if you decide to travel. You will need a valid visa, passport and travel signature on page 2 of your Form I-20. Signatures are valid for 12 months from the date of issue. Check your most recent I-20 to see if you need a new signature. You can obtain a signature in person by visiting the ISSO during normal business hours with your immigration documents. Alternatively, you can request a new travel signature through the ISSO Portal.
  • check your I-94 arrival record after you have returned to make sure you are readmitted to the US in F-1 status with the D/S duration of status expiration
  • plan ahead as ISSO will be closed from 5PM December 19, reopening at 9AM January 5, 2026. ISSOPortal requests require 10 business days for processing so don’t wait to make your request!

Wishing you a successful close to your fall semester and a wonderful holiday season!